The NFL's free agency negotiating window will open on Monday, followed by the official start of free agency on Wednesday.
The Indianapolis Colts should be active after getting some big names under contract before the start of free agency, including a massive deal for star wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. on a three-year deal.
Here's a list of some of the top free agents available at the Colts’ biggest positions of need going into the offseason.
1
QB Tyrod Taylor
Previous Team: New York Giants
Ever since his surprisingly efficient 2015 season with the Buffalo Bills, Taylor has been bouncing around the league looking for starting opportunities. He’s been with the Giants for the last two seasons, and he started five games in 2023.
If the Colts wanted to shift toward a backup option with a closer style to Anthony Richardson’s in terms of emphasizing RPO concepts, Taylor would be a fantastic option.
2
QB Marcus Mariota
3
QB Sam Darnold
Previous Team: San Francisco 49ers
Darnold isn’t an exciting option, but he has experience working both as a starter and a backup. He would likely be a cheaper version of Minshew in the sense of a low-upside, game-manager type of backup. There would be a slight upgrade in his rushing ability compared to Minshew, but Darnold should only be an option if Minshew is truly seeking fringe starter money.
4
RB D'Onta Foreman
Previous Team: Chicago Bears
Foreman may not be an exciting name at the running back position, but all he’s done over the last two seasons is produce as a spot starter. He took over as the starter with the Carolina Panthers in 2022 after Christian McCaffrey was traded. Over the final 11 games, he took 191 carries for 877 rushing yards and five touchdowns, averaging 79.7 yards per game.
Though he was a healthy scratch for the first month of the 2023 season with the Chicago Bears, he started eight games thanks to a Khalil Herbert injury. He averaged 51.1 rushing yards per game and scored four times on the ground.
Foreman is a bruising, one-cut back who would be a nice complement to Taylor in the RPO offense.
5
RB Antonio Gibson
Previous Team: Washington Commanders
If the price isn’t too high, Gibson might be the only player on this list the Colts should consider signing over Zack Moss. He never truly got the chance to break out with Washington ever since they drafted him in 2020. A receiver converted to running back, Gibson has the size, speed and after-contact ability to thrive in the Colts offense.
Gibson’s surface numbers don’t pop off the page. He took 65 carries for 265 yards and one touchdown. Digging deeper, though, he was a maestro at gaining extra yards. According to Pro Football Focus, Gibson averaged 3.51 yards after contact in 2023, ranking fifth-best among qualified running backs. He forced a missed tackle once every four rushing attempt, and his 1.22 yards per route run ranked 21st among all running backs.
On top of that, Gibson’s 71.9 pass-blocking grade ranked 12th-best among qualified running backs. Gibson would be an ideal complement to Taylor and would give the Colts another explosive element from the backfield in both phases of the offense.
6
RB Rico Dowdle
Previous Team: Dallas Cowboys
Though it may have been Tony Pollard’s backfield during the 2023 season, Dowdle had some impressive flashes. His 2.91 yards after contact average ranked 30th among qualified running backs and was a tick lower than Pollard’s (2.92). Meanwhile, he forced a missed tackle once every 6.3 rush attempt.
Dowdle doesn’t offer much in the way of pass protection so he may be a little limited on third downs, but he’s flashed some efficiency working as a change-of-pace back, and he would be a cheap replacement for Moss.
7
RB Royce Freeman
Previous Team: Los Angeles Rams
Though Freeman didn’t make any starts during the 2023 season, he did get some run in a split backfield when Kyren Williams was dealing with an ankle injury. He flashed some efficiency as well as some impressive pass protection during that stint.
Freeman’s 2.91 yards after contact average ranked 30th among qualified running backs, and he forced a missed tackle once every 4.8 rush attempt. He’s not much of a receiver, but his 67.6 pass-blocking grade ranked 12th among qualified running backs in 2023.
Freeman would be a low-cost, potentially efficient replacement for Moss if the latter walks.
8
RB Gus Edwards
Previous Team: Baltimore Ravens
The Gus Bus would be an intriguing option to add to the backfield considering his vast experience working in an RPO system for years with two-time MVP Lamar Jackson. Edwards has always been an underrated back and even though the Baltimore system is likely his ideal scheme, he would be an interesting depth piece for the Colts to lean on.
Edwards recorded career-high marks with 198 carries for 810 yards and 13 rushing touchdowns during the 2023 season. Much, if not all, of that is likely to regress. He posted a modest 2.71 yards after contact average, according to PFF, and he has diverse experience between gap and zone schemes.
Coming off a career year, Edwards’ price may be higher than the Colts want to pay. They shouldn’t overpay for his services, but he’s still an intriguing option if he hits the market.
9
WR Calvin Ridley
Previous Team: Jacksonville Jaguars
In his first season playing since 2021, Calvin Ridley put together the second-best season of his career with 76 catches for 1,016 yards and eight touchdowns. He did lack consistency but with a year under his belt and getting his legs underneath him, the former first-round pick still offers the potential leading a receiving corps.
If the Jacksonville Jaguars don't bring Ridley back then he is a viable replacement if MPJ walks but I also believe with his route-running ability that he can bring a different skill set to go with Pittman Jr., Alec Pierce, and Josh Downs.
10
WR Marquise Brown
Previous Team: Arizona Cardinals
If there was one element that was missing in the Indy passing attack in 2023 it was the deep ball with Anthony Richardson. It is the part of AR's game that can help make the offense more explosive. Marquise Brown can bring that speed to the unit that can take advantage of the quarterback's arm talent.
Brown hasn't played a full schedule in the last two seasons so there could be a chance for Chris Ballard to bring him on a one-year prove-it deal.
11
WR Tyler Boyd
Previous Team: Cincinnati Bengals
If Chris Ballard wanted to go with a solid veteran option to add to his receiver room then he can turn to Tyler Boyd. The eighth-year receiver has seen his numbers drop since the arrival of Ja'Mar Chase and Tee Higgins but he can still provide a team a good option in the slot.
The one concern is that he would potentially take away opportunities from Josh Downs in the slot. With that considered, Shane Steichen's creative ways can utilize the pair plus Boyd can pass down his experience with the nuances of playing as a slot receiver.
12
WR Odell Beckham Jr.
Previous Team: Baltimore Ravens
Odell Beckham Jr. is far from the player he once was but he's another veteran option for Chris Ballard to give some depth in the receiving corps. In the past season, he finished with 35 receptions for 565 yards and three touchdowns. OBJ's 16.1 yards per reception were a career-high.
Based on his season with the Baltimore Ravens, he appears to be okay playing his role in the offense and giving that veteran voice to the young receivers. If he can provide that with some big catches in moments then I like what Beckham Jr. can bring to the offense.
13
WR Curtis Samuel
Previous Teams: Washington Commanders
An intriguing player in the receiver market that can be used as an offensive weapon for Shane Steichen is Curtis Samuel. Over the last two seasons, he's tallied at least 62 catches, 613 yards, and four touchdowns. He also can be used as a runner, he averaged 5.9 YPC in his career and has seven rushing touchdowns. Samuel can be a fun addition to the Steichen offense with his versatility.
14
WR Gabe Davis
Previous Team: Buffalo Bills
One option that can provide depth that has played in meaningful games is Gabe Davis. He hasn't emerged as a bonafide No. 2 receiver but can be a solid WR 3/4 for an offense. He's finished with at least 45 receptions, 745 receiving yards, and seven touchdowns in the last two seasons. Davis can be a deep option in the passing attack and can provide value in the rushing attack with his blocking ability.
15
WR K.J. Osborn
Previous Teams: Minnesota Vikings
K.J. Osborn has shown that he can be a solid No. 3 receiver in an offense and has stepped up when he needs to slide into a starting role. Since he started getting playing time in 2021, he hasn't finished below 540 receiving yards and has grabbed 15 touchdowns. What I like is that Osborn can also help stretch the field as a deep option in the passing attack.
16
WR Darnell Mooney
Previous Team: Chicago Bears
A shot-in-the-dark play could be on Darnell Mooney. The fourth-year receiver showed flashes early in his career but never seemed to put it together and develop into the player some thought he could be. He's coming off career-low numbers so he can be a cheaper signing for Chris Ballard to make via free agency.
As you can tell on the backend of this list, the reason why I like Mooney is his potential value in the deep passing attack with Anthony Richardson and you would be signing him to compete for the No. 4 receiver role. If a change of scenery sparks his potential then you could get an offseason steal for 2024.
17
DE Danielle Hunter
Previous Team: Minnesota Vikings
Danielle Hunter might not be as young as some of the edge rushers on this list but the eight-year pro is coming off the best season of his career. He set career highs in tackles (83), TFLs (23), sacks (16.5), and forced fumbles (four). Hunter will likely be seeking one more big payday so he will come at a cost if Chris Ballard elects to go after a proven veteran edge rusher to add to the trenches.
18
DE Bryce Huff
Previous Team: New York Jets
Bryce Huff is an underrated edge rusher that could be available on the market. The fourth-year player is coming off a career year despite only playing 42% of the defensive snaps for the New York Jets. He had career highs in tackles (29), TFLs (10), sacks (10), and QB hits (21). It will be interesting to see if his play turns into a big payday or if a team like the Colts can get him on a friendly deal.
19
DE Jonathan Greenard
Previous Team: Houston Texans
Another edge rusher who can be hitting the market that doesn't have the name recognition on this list is Jonathan Greenard. He also is coming off his best season in his fourth year in the league. Greenard had career highs in tackles (52), TFLs (15), sacks (12.5), and QB hits (22). He's set himself up for a nice payday join the players above if Chris Ballard wants to invest money on this part of the roster outside of the ones that are already on the team.
20
DE Chase Young
Previous Team: San Francisco 49ers
The former No. 2 overall pick hasn't lived up to the billing he had when he entered the league but Chase Young can offer a team the potential to be an impact player. Because of injuries and effort concerns, he likely won't be getting that payday a first-round pick seeks in their first time on the market so Chris Ballard could look to sign him to a prove-it deal. The addition of Young can add competition to the defensive front without the long-term commitment.
21
DE Denico Autry
Previous Team: Tennessee Titans
If Chris Ballard wanted to bring back a familiar veteran for his trenches then he could look to sign Denico Autry. The former Colt is coming off his best season in his 10th year in the NFL. Autry had a career-high in tackles (50) and sacks (11.5) while also grabbing 12 TFLs and 17 QB hits. The benefit of bringing back Autry is his versatility to play on the edge or inside.
22
DE Leonard Floyd
Previous Team: Buffalo Bills
Another veteran that Chris Ballard could look to add to the defense while creating some competition for his young edge rushers is Leonard Floyd. The eight-year pro has reached at least nine sacks in his last four seasons and in 2023, he tied his career-high with 10.5 sacks. Floyd can also add some veteran leadership for the defensive front.
23
DE Jadeveon Clowney
Previous Team: Baltimore Ravens
A mercenary route that Chris Ballard could go is with Jadeveon Clowney. He put together one of the better seasons of his 10-year career with the Baltimore Ravens in 2023. He tallied 43 tackles, 9 TFLs, 19 QB hits, five pass defenses, and tied his career high with nine-and-a-half sacks. The concern with Clowney would be his effort and whether he would fit into the locker room culture.
24
DE Dorance Armstrong Jr.
Previous Team: Dallas Cowboys
Dorance Armstrong Jr. is a player I like who can come as the backup to Samson Ebukam in the LEO role in Gus Bradley's defense. He had a career-high in tackles (38) in 2023. He's had at least seven-and-a-half sacks the past two seasons and at least 12 QB hits the past three years. Armstrong Jr. can be a solid addition to the rotation on the edge.
25
DT D.J. Reader
Previous Team: Cincinnati Bengals
The best option to replace Grover Stewart if he isn't back in 2024 is Reader. The eight-year veteran is one of the best run-stopping defensive tackles in the league. The biggest concern would be his durability-he hasn't played a full schedule since 2018. In 2023, Reader finished with 34 tackles (20 solo), two TFLs, seven QB hits, a sack, a pass defense, and a fumble recovery in 14 games.
26
DT DaQuan Jones
Previous Team: Buffalo Bills
Jones has been one of the most consistent and durable defensive tackles in the NFL in his 10-year career. He appeared in at least 16 games for five straight seasons until his 2023 season was cut short due to an injury. In the seven games he played this past year, Jones tallied 16 tackles (eight solo), four TFLs, five QB hits, and 2.5 sacks. Jones does bring some good pass-rush talent to be a viable option in passing situations.
27
DT Teair Tart
Previous Team: Houston Texans
One player who will be on the market who has shown promise early in his career and will be 27 years old in the upcoming season is Tart. He is a solid run defender who can command double teams and is an effective pass rusher. The concern with Tart is it was reported that there were character issues that led to his surprising in-season release by the Tennessee Titans during the 2023 season. It still didn't stop the Houston Texans from claiming him off waivers because of what he brings as a player. He's a viable option to replace Stewart or bring him in as a depth option as he looks to put the character concerns behind him.
28
DT Raekown Davis
Previous Team: Miami Dolphins
Another player on the market who will only be 27 years old during the 2024 season and brings starting experience with him is Davis. He's a massive defensive tackle (6-foot-7, 325 pounds) who utilizes his large wingspan to clog lanes and wrap up defenders for the tackle. Davis also is a quality pass rusher who can help get after the quarterback. This past season he tallied 28 tackles (15 solo), two TFLs, six QB hits, and half-a-sack.
29
DT Shelby Harris
Previous Team: Cleveland Browns
A quality depth option for Chris Ballard to consider is Harris. He's no longer a player who can play in a full-time role but he can still provide value in a rotation and could start if Grover Stewart (if he's re-signed) had to miss any time. Harris can be used in any situation because of his ability to defend the run and get after the quarterback. In 2023 he finished with 28 tackles (17 solo), six TFLs, three QB hits, one-and-a-half sacks, five pass defenses, and a forced fumble.
30
LB Blake Cashman
Previous Team: Houston Texans
Injuries caused a slow start to Blake Cashman's career with the New York Jets but he was able to appear in at least 14 games over the last two seasons with the Houston Texans. He started as a core special teamer for Houston until his number was called in 2023. Cashman set career highs in tackles (106), TFLs (nine), and pass defenses (five) while also getting his first career interception. He might be seeking a starting role but if he doesn't get that opportunity, he would be a solid depth add to the linebacker room.
31
LB Drue Tranquill
Previous Team: Kansas City Chiefs
Drue Tranquill was a key player in the Kansas City Chiefs’ defense in their Super Bowl run. He was brought in a backup role but because of injuries, he was able to get on the field and earned snaps when the starters returned to the lineup. In 2023 he finished with 78 tackles (53 solo), seven TFLs, seven QB hits, four-and-a-half sacks, a pass defense, and two forced fumbles. Tranquill is a proven depth option at linebacker and his situation will come down to if he wants a chance to start or if he is content working in a reserve role.
32
LB Cody Barton
Previous Team: Washington Commanders
After spending his first three years in the NFL as a backup, Cody Barton eventually worked his way into a starting role with the Seattle Seahawks and Washington Commanders over the last two seasons. In each of the last two seasons as a starter, he tallied at least 121 tackles, three TFLs, two QB hits, and an interception. Barton will likely want to continue his career as a starter but if he can't find what he is seeking then he is another quality depth option that will be on the market.
33
LB Tyrel Dodson
Previous Team: Buffalo Bills
Tyrel Dodson was able to get an opportunity to play as a starter when Matt Milano went down with an injury early in the 2023 season. He ended up setting career highs in tackles (74), TFLs (eight), QB hits (six), and sacks (two-and-a-half), while also getting his first career forced fumble. Dodson can bring special teams experience and is capable of filling in if Zaire Franklin or E.J. Speed has to miss any time.
34
LB Isaiah Simmons
Previous Team: New York Giants
The former top 10 pick in the 2020 NFL draft hasn't lived up to the billing he had entering the league but the athletic hybrid linebacker is an intriguing option that will be on the market. If Gus Bradley still wants to deploy a money backer in his defense, Simmons could potentially fill that role. He can be used in a variety of roles in a limited role. According to PFF, he played snaps as an outside linebacker, inside linebacker, slot corner, outside cornerback, and as a free safety.
35
CB Stephon Gilmore
Previous Team: Dallas Cowboys
If Chris Ballard can't land one of the top two cornerbacks on the market then a veteran player for the boundary makes sense. One option could be former Colt Stephon Gilmore. In 2023, he set a career-high in tackles (68) while also collecting a forced fumble, 13 pass defenses, and two interceptions. Gilmore has stated he would like to return to Dallas so he likely prefers a team he thinks can get to a Super Bowl but if he's available then Ballard has to at least check in on his former cornerback.
36
CB Kendall Fuller
Previous Team: Washington Commanders
The Washington Commanders' secondary struggled mightly in 2023 but the one most consistent player of the group was Kendall Fuller. The eight-year veteran had 79 tackles (55 solo), two TFLs, nine pass defenses, two interceptions, and a career-high two fumble recoveries. Fuller can play out on the boundary but if Kenny Moore II isn't re-signed, I believe he is capable of sliding inside and playing full-time as a nickel corner.
37
CB Chidobe Awuzie
Previous Team: Cincinnati Bengals
Another veteran cornerback who can come in and earn a starting boundary corner spot is Chidobe Awuzie. He showed flashes of his play before tearing his ACL in 2022 and finished with 57 tackles (43 solo), two TFLs, six pass defenses, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery this past season. Awuzie can help push the younger corners on the roster while teaching them the nuances of playing the position.
38
CB Steven Nelson
Previous Team: Houston Texans
Sticking with the theme of adding a veteran cornerback to push for a starting boundary position, Steven Nelson fits that mold. In 2023, he had 63 tackles (48 solo), 12 pass defenses, and tied a career-high with four interceptions. Nelson brings a lot of experience with him with 115 starts in his nine-year career.
39
CB Ahkello Witherspoon
Previous Team: Los Angeles Rams
After dealing with injuries with the Pittsburgh Steelers which led to his release, Ahkello Witherspoon was able to have the best season of his seven-year career in 2023. He set a career-high in tackles (52), TFLs (three), fumble recoveries (two), and pass defenses (14) while also grabbing three interceptions. Witherspoon needs to be more consistent with his play but he showed he can handle top corner duties this past year with the Los Angeles Rams and can push for a starting role on the Colts.
40
CB Myles Bryant
Previous Team: New England Patriots
If Kenny Moore II isn't re-signed then a potential long-term solution to the nickel corner spot via free agency could be Myles Bryant. He's coming off a career year where he set career highs in tackles (77), TFLs (seven), forced fumbles (two), and pass defenses (seven) while also getting an interception and a QB hit. Bryant can also play outside if needed and has special teams value with his return ability.
41
CB Keisean Nixon
Previous Team: Green Bay Packers
Keisean Nixon is known for his kick return ability, something that earned him first-team All-Pro honors over the last two seasons. This past season, he was able to get more playing time with the defense and he set a career-high in tackles (80), TFLs (three) sacks (half-a-sack), pass defenses (six), and fumble recoveries (two). Nixon is a slot corner so he is an option if Kenny Moore II isn't back but if he is, Nixon can provide depth and special teams value.
42
CB Michael Davis
Previous Team: Los Angeles Chargers
A depth signing for the boundary that brings plenty of playing experience is Michael Davis. In each of the last four seasons, he has tallied at least 54 tackles, a TFL, 10 pass defenses, and an interception. Davis can be a quality corner to have on the roster that can start if injuries occur or if the young corners are having struggles on the field.
43
S Xavier McKinney
Previous Team: New York Giants
One safety that could be hitting the market that can play as a free safety but also in the box is Xavier McKinney. He had a career-high in tackles (116), pass defenses (11), and fumble recoveries (two) this past season. McKinney has the tackling ability that Chris Ballard likes in his defensive backs and has shown that he possesses good coverage skills for the backend of a defense.
44
S Kamren Curl
Previous Team: Washington Commanders
Kamren Curl might not have the name recognition but can end up being an underrated free agent signing this offseason. He had a career-high tackles (115) in 2023 while also collecting three TFLs, a sack, three QB hits, five pass defenses, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. Curl is a versatile safety that can give Gus Bradley creativity in deploying him in his defense.
45
S Jeremy Chinn
Previous Team: Carolina Panthers
A safety who could end up being worth a shot on a prove-it deal is Jeremy Chinn. It was just in 2020 when he entered the league and looked like he had the potential to be a star defensive player for the Carolina Panthers after finishing second in the Defensive Rookie of the Year voting. Unfortunately, he fell out of favor with the new coaching staff which led to a decrease in playing time, and was in trade rumors around the deadline. Similar to Kyle Dugger, Chinn is a larger safety who can be used in the money backer role Gus Bradley had Ronnie Harrison Jr. in.
46
S C.J. Gardner-Johnson
Previous Team: Detroit Lions
Another versatile option at safety that could be available is C.J. Gardner-Johnson. He appeared in the first two games before suffering an injury that some thought could end his season but he was able to return for Week 18 and the playoffs. It was just in 2022 when he had a career-high in tackles (67) and interceptions. He can be used as a safety or in the nickel role but the question is if his attitude, for better or for worse, would be welcomed in the locker room.
47
S Jordan Whitehead
Previous Team: New York Jets
A veteran option that can create competition and depth is Jordan Whitehead. In each of the past three seasons, he's finished with at least 73 tackles, three TFLs, eight pass defenses, and two interceptions. Whitehead can provide value with his run defense but has grown his coverage ability as a free safety. He would be a nice addition to push Nick Cross or complement him if Julian Blackmon isn't re-signed.
48
S Jordan Fuller
Previous Team: Los Angeles Rams
Another option that can add depth and push for a starting role is Jordan Fuller. This past season he had 94 tackles, a TFL, and three interceptions while getting a career-high in pass defenses (eight) and forced fumbles (three). Fuller fits more in the free safety role and has good ball skills to help create turnovers but also is solid in run defense up in the box with his tackling ability.
49
S Geno Stone
Previous Team: Baltimore Ravens
Geno Stone spent his first three seasons as a core special teamer while slowly working his way onto the field but because of injuries, he started in 11 games in 2023, which is three more than the combined starts he had in the last two years. He finished with career highs in tackles (68), pass defenses (nine), and interceptions (seven). Stone is primarily a free safety and doesn't offer the versatility to play closer to the line but can provide the competition and depth the safety group needs.
50
S DeShon Elliott
Previous Team: Miami Dolphins
One player I like who has starting experience to add some quality depth at safety is DeShon Elliott. In this past season with the Miami Dolphins, he had 82 tackles, a TFL, a fumble recovery, and an interception and set a career-high with seven pass defenses. Elliott is capable of pushing for a starting role and is a sure tackler in the backend of the defense.
51
OL Jermaine Eluemunor
Previous Team: Las Vegas Raiders
After starting his career as a versatile backup, Eluemunor eventually earned a full-time role as the right tackle for the Las Vegas Raiders over the last two seasons. The seven-year veteran has 45 starts under his belt and can play both tackle spots, and he can slide inside if needed. Eluemunor will likely be seeking a starting role and a payday but if that doesn't come to fruition then Ballard has to check to see if he would like to come in to compete for the swing tackle role.
52
OT George Fant
Previous Team: Houston Texans
Fant was originally signed by the Texans in a backup role but because of injuries, he quickly found himself starting in 13 games. He primarily played as the right tackle for Houston but has experience in both tackle spots and has started in 73 games in his seven-year career. Fant is an ideal veteran swing tackle to bring in and compete with Blake Freeland for that role on the roster.
53
G Sua Opeta
Previous Team: Philadelphia Eagles
If Chris Ballard wants to bring in a familiar face for Shane Steichen, then Opeta is an option for his head coach. He spent the start of his four-year career in a backup role but in 2023, his number was called because of injuries. This led to getting six of his career eight starts. Opeta has played both guard spots and would be welcome competition for the top backup guard spot on the depth chart.
54
OT Cam Fleming
Previous Team: Denver Broncos
Another swing tackle option that also brings experience with him is Fleming. He's started in 62 games in his 10-year career. In 2022, Fleming played both tackle spots starting in 15 games for the banged-up Broncos offensive line. The benefit of adding Fleming to the roster is that he shouldn't come in at a high pay rate and can help push Blake Freeland for the swing tackle role.
55
TE Adam Trautman
Previous Team: Denver Broncos
Known for his above-average run blocking, Trautman would be the ideal signing. A low-cost option, Trautman could work in line as an extension of the offensive line while providing aid as a checkdown option over the middle. He’s a superb athlete with elite change-of-direction skills and could compete for the starting Y role immediately.
56
TE Colby Parkinson
Previous Team: Seattle Seahawks
Far from a flashy name, Parkinson was one of the league’s best run-blockers at the tight end position during the 2023 season. He’s extremely versatile with the ability to line up in line, in the slot or out wide if needed. Parkinson is a reliable target in the passing even if he’s a bit uninspiring after the catch.
57
TE Drew Sample
Previous Team: Cincinnati Bengals
Sample is more of a typical in line, Y tight end option for the Colts. He may not be as strong of a run blocker as the other options listed, but he makes up for it as a receiver. Among tight ends with at least 25 targets, Sample’s 7.8 yards after the catch per reception ranked as the top mark, according to Pro Football Focus.
58
TE Charlie Woerner
Previous Team: San Francisco 49ers
Woerner works best as a rotational tight end focusing solely on run blocking. He doesn’t offer much at all as a receiver considering his 11 career receptions, but he’s one of the best run-blocking tight ends in the NFL. This is especially true on zone-blocking concepts.
59
DE A.J. Epenesa
Previous Team: Buffalo Bills
A quality edge rusher that will be available on the market that can provide depth is Epenesa. In each of the last two seasons, he has finished with 6.5 sacks and 10 QB hits. He is capable of dropping back in coverage as well. He has collected 13 passes defensed and two interceptions in the last two years. Epenesa would be a solid addition to the Indy defensive line.
60
CB Kristian Fulton
Previous Team: Tennessee Titans
If Chris Ballard wants to take a chance on a young cornerback who has flashed his abilities to be a starting-caliber boundary cornerback, then Fulton is a name to watch. He has had his ups and downs and has battled injuries in his career-he has yet to play a full schedule in his four-year career. In 12 games in 2023, he finished with 46 tackles (37 solo), two TFLs, and five passed defensed.
61
S Alohi Gilman
Previous Team: Los Angeles Chargers
This safety free agent class is deep after the wave of releases recently and one player that might get lost in the shuffle is Gillman. He's coming off the best season of his four-year career when he had career highs in tackles (73), TFLs (two), forced fumbles (three), pass defenses (10), and interceptions (two), Gilman brings versatility with him as a free safety but can play in the box and slot as well.
62
Poona Ford
Previous Team: Buffalo Bills
Ideally, for the Colts, Chris Ballard finds a way to re-sign Grover Stewart and depth behind him via free agency or the draft. One player that will be on the market with plenty of starting experience is Poona Ford. He has 64 career starts in his six-year career. Ford is coming off a disappointing season with the Bills so he will likely be available for an affordable one-year deal. He will be looking to bounce back and get back to the playing ways he showed at the start of his career with the Seattle Seahawks.
63
CB Jeff Okudah
Previous Team: Atlanta Falcons
The No. 3 overall pick in the 2020 NFL draft hasn't lived up to the billing he had entering the league due to injuries and inconsistent play. Jeff Okudah has only appeared in 38 games in his four-year career and has yet to play a full schedule so Chris Ballard won't be signing him to be a starter. However, he can provide some depth to the cornerback room. If Indianapolis doesn't acquire a starting-caliber corner via free agency or a trade, taking a low-risk move on a player like Okudah could provide dividends if he turns things around.
64
DE D.J. Wonnum
Previous Team: Minnesota Vikings
An under-the-radar edge rusher that will be on the market is Wonnum. He's coming off the best season of his four-year career where he had career highs in tackles (62) and passes defensed (six) while also tying his career highs in TFLs (seven), QB hits (15), and sacks (eight). Wonnum is a proven depth option to have in the rotation on the defensive line. He suffered a torn quadriceps in Week 16 so it that may have an impact on his market.
65
WR Quez Watkins
Previous Team: Philadelphia Eagles
I lean towards the notion that the Colts will add to the receiving corps via the draft but if Chris Ballard wanted to add a player that Shane Steichen is familiar with, then he could target Watkins. He has experience in the offense and is a good WR4 to have on the depth chart. Watkins can be a deep threat for Anthony Richardson, he averages 12.7 yards per reception. He brings starting experience with 25 starts in his four-year career.
66
EDGE Josh Uche
Previous Team: New England Patriots
Uche appeared he was on his way to developing into a quality pass rusher during the 2022 season. He finished with 27 tackles (23 solo), nine TFLs, 11.5 sacks, 14 QB hits, and two forced fumbles playing just 38% of the defensive snaps. It was a different story in 2023, he played in a situational pass rusher role and didn't come close to seeing an increase in snaps or matching his previous season's production. A flier on Uche could be worthwhile.
67
CB Darnay Holmes
Previous Team: New York Giants
One possible nickel cornerback for Chris Ballard to have on his radar is Holmes. He was once the starting slot corner for the Giants to start his career but took a step back in 2023. He was a professional about it and showed his ability as a gunner on special teams. Holmes would be a nice addition as a backup to Kenny Moore II (if he's re-signed) or to compete with a rookie for the nickel role.
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EDGE K'Lavon Chaisson
Previous Team: Jacksonville Jaguars
The former 2020 first-round pick hasn't put it all together at the next level but maybe a change of scenery can help him get his career on track. Chaisson played 25% of the defensive snaps this past season and had career highs in TFLs (four), sacks (two), and QB hits (eight). He will be 25 years old in the upcoming season so if Chris Ballard believes his coaching staff can get the best out of him he won't come at a high cost.
